India Bolsters Bay of Bengal Presence: New Naval Base in Haldia to Counter Threats

• India is establishing a new naval base in Haldia, West Bengal, directly opposite the 'Chicken Neck' (Siliguri Corridor), crucial for Northeast India's lifeline.
• The base aims to counter increasing naval activities by China in the Bay of Bengal and emerging security challenges from Bangladesh and Pakistan.
• It will function as a swift operational 'Naval Detachment,' utilizing the existing Haldia Dock Complex for rapid deployment of combat capabilities.
• Fast Interceptor Craft and New Water Jet Fast Attack Craft, equipped with CRN-91 guns and loitering munitions, will be deployed for high-speed attacks and immediate response.
• The base addresses concerns over PLA Navy presence, sea infiltration, and illegal maritime movement from Bangladesh, providing direct surveillance and response to the China-Pakistan-Bangladesh angle.

Why It Matters: India's new Haldia naval base strengthens maritime security in the Bay of Bengal, countering regional threats.